2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000 First Look Preview

If you’ve seen our rundown of the 2023 Suzuki GSX-R1000R, you can probably guess what’s in store for the 2023 GSX-R1000: new color options. Yes, the bike remains unchanged for the coming model year but will be available in either Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue or Metallic Matte Black No.2 and Glass Sparkle Black. A brand-new 2023 GSX-R1000 sportbike costs $16,149.

Considering Suzuki’s position from the outside, as it deals with a turbulent global economy, its decision to pull out from MotoGP, and the fact that literbikes aren’t commanding the same attention from customers as they once did, it comes as no surprise that this iteration of the GSX-R1000 will enter its sixth year without significant updates. The 2017 update placed the bike much more in line with its competition, and even though some models from other manufacturers have now surpassed it in sophistication, the Gixxer still retains its position as a literbike for the masses.

Much of that has to do with its competitive price. Even with the $300 increase over last year’s model, the 2023 GSX-R1000 still remains more affordable than last year’s Ninja ZX-10R and CBR1000RR. And it’s a much more palatable price tag when put up against a superbike like the Panigale V4.

For riders who want a comfortable daily rider that’s capable of providing thrills on a winding road or at a trackday, the GSX-R1000 begins to look even better. The 2023 model retains some key features, such as its bidirectional quickshifter, Showa suspension setup, Brembo braking components, and a raft of engine updates introduced during the last overhaul. Its inline-four provides plenty of down-low power and ample midrange. The top-end could still use some refinement, but that didn’t keep us from smiling when we took the up-spec R version for a spin in 2021.

If you’re in the market for a new literbike in 2023, a fresh GSX-R1000 won’t disappoint, provided you plan to use it as more of an all-rounder than as a track bike weapon.